2. About the Novel
• a classic novel by Victor Hugo
• first published in 1862.
• an epic tale of human struggle
and redemption set against
post-Napoleonic France.
• it is lovingly referred to as one
of the greatest books of all
time.
3. 26-February 1802
-22 May 1885
• Ocean Man,
• French Romantic
writer and politician
• Les Miserables, Ruy
Blas, and The
Hunchback of
Notre-Dame.
7. • uses a sympathetic and
sorrowful tone throughout
‘Les Misérables.’
TONE AND STYLES
8.
9.
10. Les Misérables portrays a
class struggle between an
oppressed working class and
elite bourgeoisie during a time of
political stability in and spurring
revolutionary sentiments in 19th
century France.
Marxist
Literary
Approach
11. It is truly evident in Les
Misérables that women before
was abused and marginalized by
its society. It has been
overpowered by man.
FEMINIST
Literary
Approach
Editor's Notes
‘Les Misérables‘ explores the idea of redemption and how even the most broken of souls can find hope and peace, specifically the protagonist Jean Valjean who ends the novel a happy older man.
Hugo masterfully weaves this theme into his novel as Jean Valjean’s journey of self-transformation is chronicled. In many ways, he’s an example of a reformed sinner that has made up for his past misdeeds by becoming an exemplary citizen.
Sacrifice is another powerful theme in ‘Les Miserables.’ Hugo examines the concept through different characters and storylines, showing how much people are willing to give up for others.
For instance, Jean Valjean gives up his newfound wealth to help Fantine and her daughter Cosette, while Marius renounces his privileged lifestyle to stand up for the poor and oppressed.
Love also plays an integral role in the novel. From Jean Valjean’s unwavering devotion to Cosette to Marius’ unconditional love for her, it’s clear that love is a powerful force that drives people to make incredible sacrifices.
Hugo captures the beauty of love as it brings hope and joy to the lives of its characters. Despite the hurdles that get in their way, the characters in the novel find their way back to one another and can be with the people they love.
Hugo was driven by a desire to expose the hardships of the lower class in 19th-century France, and his tone reflects this passion.
He paints a vivid picture of the poverty and misery that many characters experience, often using both stark and poetic imagery.
This symbolizes the struggle of the working class during the June Rebellion in Paris, and it acts as a reminder of the injustice and cruelty experienced by those living in poverty.
One of the most iconic symbols of ‘Les Misérables‘ is the barricades.
Hugo often uses barricades to demonstrate how perseverance and solidarity can overcome human struggle and suffering.
Another important symbol in ‘Les Misérables‘ is the silver candlesticks given to Jean Valjean by the Bishop. This symbolizes grace and salvation, as they represent Valjean’s redemption from his previous life of crime.
In addition, the silver candlesticks also represent a moral responsibility to help those who are less fortunate.
